OpenClaw, the popular open source AI agent, now has a native iOS app for iPhone and iPad. The app functions as a secure node for chat, voice approvals, and device-aware automation, connecting to a gateway running on Mac or PC. It replaces previous workarounds that relied on Telegram or WhatsApp for mobile access.

Users pair the iOS app with their private OpenClaw Gateway via QR code or setup code, enabling direct chat with their assistant from iPhone. The app supports real-time and background Talk mode, plus approval workflows for gateway actions. It can share text, links, and media directly from iOS while accessing device capabilities like camera, location, photos, contacts, calendar, and reminders.

The system connects API keys from Claude, OpenAI, Gemini, or other AI services to content on the gateway machine, allowing models to access messaging apps, files, and web browsers to complete tasks. However, OpenClaw carries security risks including prompt injection vulnerabilities and requires broad system permissions on gateway devices.

Originally named Clawdbot after creator Peter Steinberger's use of Claude, the project rebranded following complaints from Anthropic. The iOS app is available as a free download on the App Store, giving iPhone users direct access to their self-hosted AI assistant without third-party messaging workarounds.